Calendar

Evolution of Riot Gear

While glancing over the New York Times, a very interesting article caught our attention – Riot Gear’s Evolution (Dec. 3). It can be pointed out that the behavior of riot police may have not changed too much over the years, but a noticeable change in attire can be noted. As illustrated by the great drawings by Chi Birmingham, we can notice how there is quite the evolution in both uniform and technology. Riot police officer’s upgraded their weapons from billy clubs to a 12-gauge shotguns, a quite rudimentary gas mask and tear gas to kevlar, flash bang grenades and pepper spray. Do you think that riot police are a little over dressed for the occasion?